Well, the holidays are upon us and it’s that time of year of family gatherings, wonderful memories, and, of course, lots of scruptuous food!

Do you already have the thoughts that…”Ya, maybe I’ll just wait until the New Year to begin my diet program.” Or, “There is no point in trying to stick to my plan during the holidays since I HAVE TO eat Aunt Pat’s homemade apple pie or I just HAVE TO eat one of her delicious brownies.”

If you are already succumbing to this kind of ‘all or none thinking’ you are setting yourself up to loosen your belt another notch. This is obviously not the direction you want.

What you need is a PLAN before the holiday gatherings and feasts begin. Put your needs first. Keep your goals and visions alive.

How can you turn down Aunt Pat’s desserts without thinking you are offending her?Very tactfully. Acknowledge that the food looks awesome and smells so good. Mention that you know it must have taken her a lot of time to prepare and then say, “I think I’ll pass this time.” You are complimenting the chef, yet putting your needs first.

If you know the menu ahead of time you can go over a plan of action BEFORE the food is literally right under your nose. For example, picture all of the foods that you know you will be exposed to. What do you want on your plate? What is a good portion size for you and your goals? SEE your plate and the food. Now when you are actually in the situation, you will be more in control of yourself. Tell yourself that, “I will fill my plate once, and there is no going back for a refill.”

Keep in mind that you DESERVE the body you are setting out to achieve. Who cares what everyone else thinks! This is about you. You have a mission, and you are setting yourself up to achieve it. What should matter the most is that you are there at the party, you are having fun with family/friends…this is what truly counts. Take the focus off the food.

Oh, and remember there is no perfection…but you CAN MANAGE the holiday spread, instead of the spread grabbing your waistline!

Cheers to YOU, and to the body that you deserve!!

Angie
ISSA – C.P.T., B.Ed.